Imagine a world where magic is real, where ruling lords plot to overthrow the crown and a kingdom is left to flounder with a young and untried High Lord having recently been awarded the throne. Imagine a world of armored and sword-wielding soldiers, of stealthy assassins, of plots and betrayals, romance and mystery, of wars and battles both at home and abroad. This is the kingdom of Kazure, where the threat of civil war between the various ruling factions looms ever present even as enemies press from outside the country's borders, threatening everything its people hold dear. High Lord Kaori Sansa has to find a way to overcome the trials facing both him and Kazure or else risk losing it all—his country, his life, and quite possibly his soul.
"You just have to buckle up for this journey, because that is what it is. Forget sleep, work, and other such trivial things and just… enjoy!"
- Eyes On Books
"All you fantasy lovers out there are about to get a true treat when you crack open this book, you will be transported to an incredible world that has a feel of feudal Japan and incredible characters who draw you into a journey that will have you gripped from the first chapter."
- MM Good Book Reviews
"J.A. Jaken has written a wonderful coming of age story here. Kaori's journey from young man to King is told with intricate characters and beautiful artistry. A Five Star read!"
- Jill Prand Reviews
"It was a delightful gem that ensnared me from the first page. This is an excellent book that I would highly recommend whether you like fantasy, or adventure, or a bit of intrigue."
- Loving Without Limits
"I was riveted to the story so much so I didn’t want to stop reading. If you want a good story with a brilliant plot this will be perfect for you."
- Rainbow Gold Reviews
When Kaori Sansa's father dies, he is forced to return home to claim the throne as the rightful heir of the country of Kazure. In the aftermath of his father's death, he learns that the country he loves is riddled with corruption, and is hovering on the brink of war. Will he be able to hold the kingdom together despite the odds that are stacked against it, and somehow unlock the buried powers of Shinja, the Sacred Beast of Kazure?
Kaori Sansa has uncovered the truth about Shinja, the Sacred Guardian of Kazure, but the country he is sworn to protect is far from secure. War presses hard from the east, and unrest from within Kazure's borders threatens to undermine what little control he has managed to gain over his subjects. Furthermore, there are those who question his choice in pursuing a relationship with Hunter--quite possibly even those who are closest to him, and whom he has most come to depend upon. Will he find a way to sort through the miasma of lies, violence, and political entanglements that surround him in order to save the country he loves, yet somehow remain true to his own heart?
The country of Kazure bows under the shadow of war as the Shindori lords from the east continue to wage their holy crusade. Kaori Sansa, the High Lord of Kazure, is desperately searching for a way to defend his people while he struggles to determine which of the lords in his own country can be trusted to see the war through. Meanwhile, Hunter confronts his inner demons as the horrors of his past come back to haunt him, and he comes face to face with the criminal organization that enslaved him as a child. Both men must fight to uphold their oaths—both to Kazure and to each other—while the forces gathering around them are doing everything in their power to bring them down.
It has been over a year since Kaori took the throne, and he and Hunter are at last ready to become married under Kazurian law. However, a brutal attack against Hunter just days before the wedding suggests that not all of Kazure is in favor of the alliance. Kaori goes on a desperate quest to save Hunter's life at the same time that a new enemy arises, murdering a large number of priests and priestesses in the Summer Temple. Solving these two mysteries will determine whether or not Hunter will survive, and if Kaori will be able to continue as the High Lord of Kazure at all.
